Getting More Out of Manchester Patch

It has been nearly a year since Manchester Patch launched so if you are reading this, you probably know what we’re all about. But just in case, here’s a reminder:

Manchester Patch is part of a network of hundreds of sites nationwide, each dedicated to bringing readers the latest news from their communities. We cover everything from government and schools to police and local events.

You can do your part as a reader of Manchester Patch by using our events calendar, posting announcements, engaging in social media and sending me — the editor — news tips.

Here is a refresher course on how you can get the most out of Manchester Patch:

Talk to me. Beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 11, I will hold weekly office hours at neighborhood restaurants and other locations. Stop by to sit down with me over a cup of coffee, ask questions and tell me what you like and don’t like, what you would like to see covered and any ideas you may have.

Today, I’ll be at the Lakehurst Diner, 401 Route 70, at noon. Check Manchester Patch’s facebook page for a weekly reminder or an update, just in case plans change.

Contribute. Manchester Patch is always looking for local bloggers. If you enjoy writing, are an expert in your field or an area of interest, or would like to cover a local issue, e-mail me.

Comment on an article or shout it out. After reading an article, share your thoughts and reaction by posting a comment directly below each story. You can also comment without posting to an article. On the right side of the homepage, Patch asks you, “What do you have to say?” Your thoughts will go right into the stream on the homepage.

Ask or answer a question. Click on the “Q&A” tab on the top of the homepage to ask a question. This section is a place where you can not only ask questions but show off your expertise by answering someone else’s question.

Post an event or announcement. Whether it’s a local book signing, concert, church or non-profit event, garage sale, or a graduation ceremony, add any events that you know of right to the Manchester Patch calendar. Do the same with announcements. Add birth, engagement, or wedding or death announcements. Not only will other Manchester Patch readers be informed about what is happening locally, but the events and announcements you add can also act as additional news tips.

Upload your photos and video. Upload your photos from the elementary school spring concert, the varsity basketball game, or a snow storm. Manchester Patch is meant to be community driven. Share your memories.

Send a news tip or a letter to the editor. Have a brilliant idea for a story? At the bottom of the homepage there is a link that says, “Send us news tips.” The more that dialogue is shared on Manchester Patch, the more useful the site will be. Next time you share something with your neighbor, consider sending a letter to the editor. Send me your suggestion or letter directly from the site or e-mail me.

Sign up for newsletters. Become a member of Patch by signing up to receive the Manchester daily newsletter and updates about Patch. The newsletter will be e-mailed to you ever day at 6 a.m. keeping you updated on the stories that have been posted in the last 24 hours.

Social media engagement. Manchester Patch is on Facebook and Twitter. “Like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Content is updated daily on each page. Engage yourself by commenting, starting a conversation or discussion, and inviting your friends.

Claim your directory listing. Manchester Patch has a directory of everything and anything in Manchester Township. If you are an owner or manage a business or organization in the directory, claim it. To contact us about the listing, send an e-mail to directorysupport@patch.com.

Advertise with us. For information on advertising with Manchester Patch, click here. For all advertising queries, send an e-mail joe@patch.com. Patch gives 5% of its advertising space, free of charge, to local charities from the communities Patch serves. Please contact us to see if you qualify.

Marketplace. Manchester Patch has a classifieds section under the Marketplace tab. All classifieds are free until Jan. 20 so add your job opportunities, merchandise, or services now.

Review restaurants. Is your mouth watering after tasting something delectable at a local restaurant? Give the restaurant a thumbs-up (or down) by posting a review here.

Volunteer. If your cause needs local help, click on "volunteer" at the bottom of the homepage to let us know.